If what you really want is an SUV, you'll dismiss the Focus Active as a piece of marketing frippery. But if you're looking for a family hatch, but you'd actually like a slightly more adventurous-looking one, it may be right up your street. OK, so you don't get 4WD - but then hardly any small or mid-sized SUV provides that either. The same could be said of a requirement for a raised driving position - though this car's 30mm ride height increase does provide a little of what you might look for in that regard.
Overall, it depends what you want. If what you really want is a Focus, this is one that'll give you a bit of extra peace of mind the next time a snowy or icy snap strikes, thanks to the extra traction afforded by its 'Slippery' and 'Trail' driving modes. And it'll fit in nicely on the school run too.

Ford SYNC 4 Navigation with 13.2'' touchscreen, DAB radio, Emergency Assistance, Apple Carplay & Android Auto, 6 speakers & FordPass Connect

Thatcham alarm with power door dead locks

Remote central locking & engine immobiliser

Pre collision assist with autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection

Lane keeping system - lane keeping alert and lane keeping aid

Electrically operated front and rear windows with one touch opening and closing

Dual zone electronic air temperature control

Electrically operated heated power fold door mirrors with puddle lamp with side indicators

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage

Manufacturers Paintwork Guarantee - Years

Man Corrosion Perforation Guarantee - Years

Ford Focus

1.0 EcoBoost Hybrid mHEV Active 5dr